The age old question... new lens or new body?

I am going to buy something tonight! I have $1800 that I want to use on either a new lens or a new body. I have been looking at the 7D or the 70-200mm 2.8 L IS. I would love to have the L lens but after having my rented 100-400 on my rebel it just feels so tiny and fragile. I'm mostly into wildlife and aviation stuff right now so any suggestions would be great! I have also tossed around the idea of grabbing a 50D with the 70-200mm F4 L is or the 70-200mm f 2.8 non IS.....ahhhhh I'm so confused on what to do!!

You could pick up a used 40D and a 70-200 2.8 and be very happy. That's a great combination. Just my $0.01.

Upgrade to a used 40D and get your lens. 7D's are great, but they are also the flavor of the month. You'll enjoy the upgrade from the xs and still be able to get your glass.

Honestly unless I can find something locally I am not going to buy a used item this expensive. I have seen too many people get burned by scammers and what not.

SVTmaniac wrote in post #9562230
Honestly unless I can find something locally I am not going to buy a used item this expensive. I have seen too many people get burned by scammers and what not.

You've personally seen this, or you've read about it on here? There are a hundred or more success stories on here that dont get any attention. There are reputable used retailers as well like keh and adorama.

I have had no problem buying and selling on here. especially from people with high number of posts.
+1 on the 40D &70-200

+2 on 40d + 70-200

you can buy a refurb that will have a warranty as well..

don't spend all your money on a new body, i do however understand the want/need for a xxD body, they are definatly worth having for the feel and controls.

I've traded my 40D for a MkII. I've bought my MkIIn, 2 580EX IIs, and a bunch of other gear from POTN members. Research is key when buying/selling. There is always a risk when buying from non-local. That includes buying new from a reputable dealer, too.

I shot for awhile with my xsi / 70-200 2.8 I S and it was a great combo. Glass first then the body is my suggestion. I now have the 7d and knowing what I know having had what you have now go with the glass . Get the 70-200 2.8 with IS you will be glad you did.

gonzogolf wrote in post #9562309
You've personally seen this, or you've read about it on here? There are a hundred or more success stories on here that dont get any attention. There are reputable used retailers as well like keh and adorama.

Not from this site in particular but I have a lot of hobbies and have seen a lot of forum members taken advantage of. Not to say it's going to happen here but a quick search in the classifieds for a 40D came up with nothing but under 100 post people selling. I usually don't trust people with that low of a post count but that's just me.

Now on to my next question. Why is everyone recommending the 40D over the 50D? Is there something wrong with the 50D?

SVTmaniac wrote in post #9563721
Not from this site in particular but I have a lot of hobbies and have seen a lot of forum members taken advantage of. Not to say it's going to happen here but a quick search in the classifieds for a 40D came up with nothing but under 100 post people selling. I usually don't trust people with that low of a post count but that's just me.

Now on to my next question. Why is everyone recommending the 40D over the 50D? Is there something wrong with the 50D?

There's nothing wrong w/ the 50D, but IMO, there just isn't enough difference between the 40D and 50D to justify the expense. Besides, they're cheaper and is the better option to give you some more $$ for a lens.

SVTmaniac wrote in post #9563721
Now on to my next question. Why is everyone recommending the 40D over the 50D? Is there something wrong with the 50D?

Recommending the 40D, so that you can get BOTH a body and a lens.

Looks like I may actually pick up a used 50D and the 70-200 f4L and just save the rest for a rainy day. Thanks for the suggestions everyone.

I don't think you will be dissapointed. Good Luck.

SVTmaniac wrote in post #9562146
I am going to buy something tonight! I have $1800 that I want to use on either a new lens or a new body.

Well, what did you end up getting??